Needlework: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for work done by hand with a needle, such as sewing, knitting, embroidery, and crochet. Often used when describing the craft collectively.

• She loved spending her evenings doing needlework
• The shop offers various supplies for needlework enthusiasts

The act of stitching fabric together, usually to make garments or repair items. Focuses more on the construction aspect as opposed to decoration.

• She learned sewing from her grandmother
• He's sewing a new dress for the upcoming event

The activity of decorating fabric or other materials with needle and thread or yarn. Specifically refers to ornamental needlework.

• She embellished the pillow with beautiful embroidery
• The museum displayed historical pieces of embroidery from different cultures

Refers to the creation of handmade items, including but not limited to needle-based activities. Broad term that encompasses paper crafts, woodworking, and more. Commonly used when discussing a variety of handmade projects.

• He spends his weekends crafting gifts for his friends
• Crafting allows for a lot of creativity and personal expression

Refers to art that uses plant, animal, or synthetic fibers to construct practical or decorative objects, often emphasizing artistic expression more than functionality.

• The gallery featured an exhibit on contemporary textile art
• Her passion for textile art began in college, where she studied various techniques